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Thursday, October 2, 2014

New York Renassaince Faire 2014

In early September I had plans to attend the New York Renaissance
Faire. This would be a step up from last year's foray with the Fort Tryon Park Medieval Festival, and I was both excited to experience new things but dreading the 90 degree forecast!

Naturally,
I began whipping up a bodice the day prior to the NYRF and worked on it
until 3 a.m. and later in the car on the way to Tuxedo Park. I was
unable to finish it in time but it was an honest attempt, and my back-up
outfit wasn't so bad!

Myself, the Faire's Maid Marion, and my friend who brought me to the Faire.

Wearing the Moresca Cleo bodice. Yes, it was beautifully designed and constructed, but for me, buying garb ruins the fun of creating your own!

Also, isn't nearly $200 a little much for something I'll only wear once a year?

Overall, the outfit was cute and practical. I can proudly say that I had the largest, fluffiest sleeves at the Faire! Yes, it was 90 degrees and extremely humid, and yes, I must wash the hideous sweatstains out of my camicia, but I am happy in knowing that even though I mixed 16th and 18th century pieces, I was still one of the most Renaissance-looking people at the Faire.

I understand that the Faire isn't the place for historical accuracy, and practicality is a major consideration (my petticoats were caked with mud after the Washer Woman Wenches show), but I don't think I can wear a knit top or worse--printed knit "bloomers" with synthetic lace! I think I looked "Film Historical," that is, not historically accurate but not out of place in a period production.

About Me

Born and raised in New Jersey, I became familiar with needles and thread at a young age, being given scraps of fabric with which to make doll clothes. My adoration and exploration of sewing has since then exploded, partly due to a passion for history. I currently volunteer at the Kearny Museum, restoring and re-displaying antique garments.